Growing daylilies

For best bloom daylilies require much fertilizer and moisture prior to bloom time. They will tolerate less fertilizer and poorer soils, but wont bloom as well. Apply granular, organic liquid-soluble, or foliar-applied fertilizers according to label directions.

Although daylilies in pots can be planted almost any time the soil can be worked, early spring and late summer are the best times for digging and transplanting. To propagate, transplant, or divide this perennial, either dig a portion off an established clump or dig a whole clump (they can be large!), then divide. Work carefully to avoid damage to the roots, although some cutting is inevitable. A square-tipped spade works well.

Set the crown (where the root and stem join) no more than one inch below the soil surface, spacing plants at least 18 to 24 inches apart. Be careful not to set plants too deeply since they may become stunted and will lack vigor. When digging the planting hole, leave a mound of soil in the center to spread the roots over, then cover. Most important is to keep new transplants well-watered to a depth of eight to ten inches.

If plants are divided during mid-summer after bloom, cut the tops back to within four to six inches of the base. Keep your new planting weed-free until plants become well established. Best flowering usually occurs two to four years after planting. Mulching around plants with an organic material such as pine straw or ground bark chips will help conserve water and deter weeds.